Description

Baked apple cider donuts are tender, spiced donuts infused with reduced apple cider and coated in a sweet cinnamon-apple spice topping. Perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday brunches, or as a homemade snack. Easily made gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free flour if needed)

– 1 tsp baking soda

– ¾ tsp baking powder

– 1 tsp ground cinnamon

– 1 tsp apple pie spice (substitute a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice if needed)

– ¼ tsp salt

– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (substitute plant-based butter for vegan diets)

– 1 large egg (substitute flax egg for vegan diets)

– ½ cup light or dark brown sugar

– ½ cup granulated sugar

– ½ cup milk (substitute plant-based milk for vegan diets)

– 1 tsp vanilla extract

– ½ cup reduced apple cider (simmer store-bought cider until reduced to ½ cup)

For the Topping:

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– ¾ tsp ground cinnamon

– ¾ tsp apple pie spice

– 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (substitute plant-based butter for vegan diets)

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Instructions

Simmer apple cider in a small saucepan over low heat until reduced to about ½ cup (about 20 minutes). Set aside to cool for 10 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and spray a donut pan with non-stick spray.
Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt in a large bowl.
In another bowl, whisk melted butter, egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, adding the reduced apple cider, until smooth.
Spoon batter into the donut cavities using a zipped-top bag for ease. Fill each cavity about halfway.
Bake for 10–11 minutes, or until edges and tops are lightly browned. Cool for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Re-grease the pan and bake remaining batter.
Combine granulated sugar, cinnamon, and apple pie spice in a bowl. Dunk cooled donuts in melted butter, then generously coat in the spice mixture.

Notes

– Use freshly reduced apple cider for maximum flavor. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.

– Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freeze uncoated donuts for longer storage; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and coating. Avoid microwaving if possible.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert / Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American / Fall Treats

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 donut
Calories: ~200
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg